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Typically, I've had my fill of undead films. While classics like 28 Days Later along with the initial episodes from The Walking Dead proved gripping, the genre feels largely exhausted nowadays. Even the much-awaited 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for some time. However, Netflix's latest Southeast Asian zombie flick, The Elixir, managed to defy what I anticipated turning out quite enjoyable.

Superb Rhythm and Personal Growth

Among this movie's strongest strengths is its superb pacing. It begins using a striking initial scene in which a calm family gathering gets suddenly disrupted by a van plows into the guest area. From the wreckage, a very undead-looking individual emerges proceeding assaulting the attendees. This intense moment is then followed by a look back, giving viewers to observe the family before the disaster occurred.

In contrast to numerous undead movies, The Elixir actually gives the audience enough opportunity to become acquainted with the primary characters before the carnage ensues. We meet Nes, a wife and mother with a ex close friend, Karina, has become wed to Nes' father—a clearly awkward situation. This has predictably led to a rift among the two women. Then there's Nes' brother, Bang, described as kind-hearted yet socially awkward, and who enjoys gaming with Nes' young son, Raihan. Nes' husband, Rudi, seems to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household patriarch is Nes' father, the owner of a well-known herbal remedy company named Wani Waras, and who appears to care about just two things: his business and his marriage to his daughter's former best friend. Needless to say, this family reunion proves incredibly tense.

Engaged in the Drama

I became so invested in the household's issues along with their interpersonal drama that I nearly overlooked I was watching a scary movie—something that could sound like a drawback, yet ultimately paid off. The Elixir dedicates a significant amount of its runtime depicting us the identity of every relative represents, and how they contribute to the overall dysfunction. This emphasis on clashing traits enabled me to connect with the characters sufficiently to be concerned for their fate—an uncommon accomplishment for this style that often presents characters only to eliminate them shortly afterwards. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as flat, disposable victims for an army of the undead to devour, thus it's a genuine shock once events eventually go wrong.

Evocative of Parasite

The initial scenes from the gathering and the multiple family interactions in fact bring to mind the movie Parasite, a tale which disguises itself as a K-Drama featuring somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt turn into shocking ground. These early moments aren't centered as much on humor as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless provides enough opportunity to immerse in its world before everything gets turned upside down.

Unique Infection Source

This movie additionally presents a fairly interesting reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or a type of biological weapon, the source for this infectious condition stems from a recent sample from Wani Waras natural medicines developed by Nes' father. While we do learn a bit about how it started, I wish the film had spent a little more focus on how Wani Waras transitioned from a reputable purveyor of natural treatments to producing a deadly potion that appears to include an extremely infectious pathogen. Despite the limited background, the effect this condition produces on humans proves absolutely disgusting, which I love it. The Elixir's zombies are fast, bizarre in appearance, and, perhaps worst of all, constantly grinning. This represents a bold decision, but it works. The Elixir's practical effects and computer graphics also appear quite realistic, and are almost guaranteed to trigger a fear of holes.

Resourceful Personalities

Even better compared to the gross-out moments are the characters themselves. Certainly, there are some examples of questionable choices (like any any good zombie movie), however for the most part, Nes and her relatives are inventive and sharp. Additionally, they don't hesitate to kick a zombie in the head, stab it with a pitchfork, or beat it over the head with whatever blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like prey caught in lights while danger approaches.

Realistic Familial Strike

The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict when people start turning into zombies, which was a welcome realistic deviation from that "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died so I instantly pardon you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world films. Obviously, Nes loves her relatives and values her husband, Rudi, but it's also apparent she's still holding onto bitterness over his betrayal of their marriage vows. When the family gets separated, they agree via telephone to meet up at a nearby spot. However, once Bang reveals he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive amount of frustration toward Bang that's clearly been building for years. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable because the film avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This makes the moments where these individuals express appreciation toward one another seem far more sincere.

Predictable Conclusion

Despite The Elixir's best attempts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat stereotypical. The Elixir isn't really offering up some profound insight regarding relatives or community, either. Rather, it's primarily serving up scares. But they're effective frights, and since the film gives each character sufficient space to develop and avoids penalizing them for their imperfections, the outcome proves a captivating and entertaining